Never forget what happened at Lonz

CATAWBA ISLAND — Tuesday marked 25 years since the July 1, 2000, Lonz Winery terrace collapse on Middle Bass Island. It resulted in injuries to more than 75 people and one death. To remember the occasion, Ottawa County-area officials — including those from the local emergency management agency as well as Catawba Island fire — gathered to recount the day. Many first responders, dispatchers and survivors came together at Catawba Island's fire station to remember what transpired that tragic day. Many also honored first responders for the "resilience and teamwork" that followed, according to a statement from the management agency. "Several of our heroic members — including former firefighter/EMT Debi Barlow, former Chief Dan Barlow, former Chief John Gangway, engineer Paul Ochs and former Chief Kevin Wylie — represented (Catawba Island fire) in a discussion recounting the details of that tragic day," according to a department statement. "All of these firefighters were key to responding to the winery incident, and most continue to serve as volunteers today with Chief Barlow, Chief Gangway and engineer Ochs still serving on Catawba Island," the statement read. "Chief Wylie has relocated, but serves for neighboring Townsend Township and continues to train with us on EMS nights," it continued. "Firefighter/EMT Debi Barlow served from 1992 to 2008 and also served as a dispatcher for the Ottawa County Sheriff's Department." The department statement ended by stating this: "We remember, we honor, and we remain committed to the same level of service and preparedness today."